Comments on: Shimano Di2

By: Rick

Rick — Tue, 10 May 2011 15:13:23 +0000

Patrick, good points. I think Shimano will be coming out with an Ultegra level electric shift soon. They are also simplifying the mountain bike drivetrains, old 3×9, new 2×10. As for manual shifting, next time you see him, ask Andy Schleck about shifting SRAM under load

He’s now using Dura Ace.

By: Mark

Mark — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 21:39:04 +0000

I ride a a bent too bad I can’t use them on it.

By: Patrick

Patrick — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 22:52:50 +0000

I dunno, as far as racing is concerned, I think the mechanical action of the bike should be all human-powered. As far as “making a better shifting product”, for the non-racing set, I’m absolutely fine with it.

I like the fact that not only must one choose their gear wisely, but they must also execute the choice through their own skill. I also dislike the fact that we keep ratcheting-up the equipment-intensiveness of the sport. This ups-the-bar the way STI levers did. A middle-class kid from anywhere USA is going to feel like he/she needs electronic shifting in order to race, and that ups the cost to entry significantly.

By: mari

mari — Fri, 07 May 2010 20:56:33 +0000

Hey Matt!
The Di2 is great fro people with weaker hand strength. It really works well and is basically like pushing a button. Very simple. I would definitely suggest it for anyone who has problems shifting a manual group. I also think it would be great for beginers, but it is still expensive so many beginners won’t be too excited to spend the money, but it is definintely worth it.
The batter lasts a LONG time and there is a light that goes on when you have about 150 miles left on the charge. That being said, you can’t shift without the battery, and there might be a way to do it manually but I don’t know about it yet. I will need to figure it out:-)
I hope you are well….

By: Matt P

Matt P — Fri, 07 May 2010 19:19:39 +0000

Mari, thanks for posting about Di2. I know many traditionalists who scoff at electronic shifting, so it’s good to read something positive about it.

I’m glad you mentioned Paralympians. I personally know some people who — while not disabled — simply have weaker hand muscles. So can you shift Di2 with less hand strength that the amount needed to shift a manual group?

Also, just so I’m clear, without the battery you cannot shift at all? Can you even physically move the chain? For example, if you had shown up at your ride in your 53X11, could you have moved the chain by hand to a lighter gear?

Thanks!